Ann Widdecombe’s family is arranging her funeral service at Buckfast Abbey, a place she cherished, according to church officials. Widdecombe, a former Cabinet Minister and spokesperson for Reform UK, had visited the abbey just days before her passing on July 8 and was a regular attendee there.
A spokesperson for Buckfast Abbey stated that they are collaborating with the family on the funeral arrangements and will share more details when appropriate, requesting privacy for the family during this time.
The statement further expressed that the Abbot and Monastic Community of Buckfast are keeping Widdecombe, her family, and loved ones in their prayers. They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of sympathy and support received.
In a recent announcement, Widdecombe’s family disclosed plans for a private funeral service to be held in the upcoming weeks, limited to close associates. A public memorial will follow later, with details to be unveiled later.
A representative from Buckfast Abbey confirmed that the statement pertains to the private funeral service but did not provide details on the timing.
Widdecombe was discovered deceased in her residence in Haytor, Devon, approximately eight miles from Buckfast Abbey, on July 9, believed to have passed away around 24 hours earlier.
Police have charged Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, with Widdecombe’s murder. It was alleged in court that she died after being struck with a hammer 21 times during lunch. A trial date has been provisionally set for June 2027.
Details emerged during the court hearing that Widdecombe was assaulted, thrown from her chair, and robbed of her wallet before being found the next day with head injuries at her remote bungalow near Dartmoor National Park.
The court learned that concerns were raised when Widdecombe did not show up for a scheduled interview on Channel 5. Producers attempted to reach her for 24 hours before a gardener was sent to check on her.
During an inquest in Exeter, Coronor Philip Spinney reported that Widdecombe was discovered unresponsive with visible injuries at her property, with the precise cause of death yet to be determined.